Phuket: Best of Phi Phi Islands Snorkeling Tour with Lunch

Taking a day to explore the Phi Phi Islands from Phuket is an experience many travelers dream of—crystal waters, towering limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life. This tour by MAM Holidays promises to bring you close to those iconic sights in one well-structured day filled with snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing stops. With a 5-star rating based on genuine reviews, it’s clear many find this outing both enjoyable and worth the value.

What we particularly like about this tour is the combination of diverse activities—from cultural sites in Phuket’s Old Town to snorkeling at beautiful spots around Phi Phi, all balanced with plenty of time to unwind. The knowledgeable guides are a highlight, with reviewers noting their expertise and efforts to make every moment memorable. The included lunch and equipment add convenience, saving you extra costs and logistical hassles.

The main consideration? The tour’s timing and group size mean it’s a packed day, so those seeking a slow, relaxed pace might find it a bit rushed. Also, the national park fee of 400 Thai Baht for foreigners is an additional expense to keep in mind.

This experience suits adventurous travelers who appreciate stunning scenery, enjoy snorkeling, and want a comprehensive day trip that covers the essentials of Phi Phi without the hassle of planning each detail.

Good To Know

• All-in-one experience covering key Phi Phi sites like Maya Bay and Viking Cave
• Expert guides enhance the tour with local insights and assistance
• Snorkeling gear and lunch included for added convenience and value
• Cultural insights with a quick stop in Old Phuket Town
• Comfortable transportation from Phuket’s main areas with pickup and drop-off
• Additional fees such as national park entrance costs apply

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Old Phuket Town

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel and a transfer to the pier—an easy way to start your day without logistical stress. Guests are welcomed with a light breakfast, tea, coffee, and snacks, setting a casual and friendly tone. This brief stop is appreciated, especially after traveling from your accommodation, and provides an opportunity to meet your guide and fellow travelers.

Pileh Bay & Snorkeling Opportunities

Next, you’ll head to Pileh Bay, a highlight for many. This spot around Phi Phi Lay and Phi Phi Don is famed for its clear waters and impressive limestone formations. Here, you can expect to spend roughly an hour swimming and snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life. While the snorkeling equipment is included, it’s worth noting that you might want to bring your own reef-safe sunblock and waterproof camera to capture the underwater marvels.

Viking Cave: A Bird’s Nest Treasure

A quick 15-minute stop at Viking Cave offers more than just a glance at its striking cliffs. The cave is well-known for its bird’s nests, harvested sustainably for culinary uses. From the boat, you’ll get a glimpse of the cave’s impressive overhang and learn a bit about local bird’s nest harvesting practices. It’s a brief but fascinating photo stop that adds a touch of local industry and natural beauty.

Monkey Beach: A Fun Wildlife Encounter

Another 15-minute stop takes you to Monkey Beach, where curious primates often come close to visitors. Reviewers mention the opportunity for good photos—just remember to keep a respectful distance and secure your belongings, as these smart animals are known for their nimbleness. It’s a relaxed stop ideal for a quick wander and some memorable snapshots.

Maya Bay: Iconic and Often Crowded

The tour’s most iconic stop is Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach.” You’ll spend around 40 minutes soaking up the stunning views—towering cliffs, soft white sand, and crystal clear waters. Although Maya Bay is occasionally closed during August and September for conservation, the timing of your visit might influence your experience. Reviewers highlight the breathtaking scenery, with one calling it “a magical moment,” while noting it can get busy with other boats and travelers.

Khai Island: Relax and Snorkel

The last stop is Khai Nok Island, where you can unwind, swim, or snorkel in more tranquil waters. With about an hour allocated here, it’s the perfect chance to cool off after a busy morning. Many travelers appreciate the freedom to relax on the beach or explore the island’s shallow waters at their leisure.

Practical Details & What You Need to Know

Duration and Group Size

Spanning approximately 8 to 9 hours, this tour offers a full day of activity without feeling overly rushed. The group size caps at 50 people, ensuring that you’re not lost in a crowd but still have a lively social atmosphere. The transportation is air-conditioned and comfortable, with pick-up from key Phuket areas such as Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town.

Cost and Value

At $53 per person, this tour provides good value considering the inclusions: pickup, snorkeling gear, lunch, a knowledgeable guide, and insurance. The added cost of the national park fee (400 THB for foreigners) is an extra expense, but it’s a standard fee for these protected areas. Reviewers find the overall price reasonable, especially since it covers most essentials and avoids hidden costs.

What to Bring

We recommend bringing swimwear, a beach towel, slippers, a waterproof camera or phone in a waterproof bag, reef-safe sunblock, sunglasses, and some extra money for souvenirs or snacks. The guide suggests packing light but prepared for sun exposure and water activities.

Weather and Cancellations

The tour requires good weather to run smoothly; poor weather can lead to cancellations with a full refund or alternative date. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty, making it flexible if your plans change.

The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Say

The standout feature, according to reviews, is the expert guides—their knowledge about the islands and marine environment is highly valued. One reviewer mentioned that the crew “are really experts about the Phi Phi Islands and can make your experience unforgettable,” which makes the trip feel more personalized and immersive.

Many travelers rave about the scenery, describing Maya Bay and Viking Cave as truly breathtaking. The snorkeling spots around Phi Phi are also praised, with clear waters and abundant marine life making for memorable underwater photos.

A common theme is the feeling of well-organized logistics—timed stops, helpful staff, and smooth transfers—which allows you to focus on enjoying the experience. The included lunch is often highlighted as a tasty Thai buffet, giving a satisfying break during the long day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers looking for a well-rounded day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxation. It’s ideal if you want to see the key sites of Phi Phi without the hassle of arranging transport or guides yourself. If you’re someone who values good value for money and appreciates knowledgeable guides, this tour will likely meet your expectations.

It’s also perfect for those who don’t mind a full day’s schedule, and are comfortable with a group dynamic. If you’re traveling as a family or with friends, the mix of sightseeing and free time on the beaches makes it a flexible option.

Final Thoughts

This Phuket to Phi Phi Islands tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to experience some of Thailand’s most iconic scenery and marine environments. The combination of expert guiding, beautiful stops, and included amenities makes it a solid choice for travelers seeking value and authenticity.

While it’s a busy day, the variety of stops—ranging from cultural sights to snorkeling and relaxing on pristine beaches—ensures you’ll leave with plenty of memorable moments. The added bonus of good reviews from past travelers underscores its reliability and quality.

For adventurous souls eager to explore the best of Phi Phi without stress, this tour delivers a balanced taste of natural beauty, fun activities, and cultural insights, making it a worthwhile addition to a Phuket itinerary.

FAQs

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Phuket areas like Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town, snorkeling equipment, a Thai buffet lunch, an English-speaking guide, and travel insurance.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the national park entrance fee for foreigners is 400 Thai Baht for adults and 200 Thai Baht for children, payable at the entrance.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience runs approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving you a full day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children who enjoy water activities and sightseeing will likely find it enjoyable, but it’s best for those comfortable with a full-day schedule.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, beach towel, slippers, waterproof camera, reef-safe sunblock, sunglasses, waterproof bag, and some extra pocket money are recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund. Less notice may result in no refund.

Is the price worth it?
Considering the inclusions, expert guides, and scenic stops, many travelers find it a good value for a full day’s adventure.

How busy will the tour be?
With a maximum of 50 travelers, it’s a lively but not overcrowded experience, allowing for good group interactions and personal space.

This tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insights, making it an excellent choice for those visiting Phuket who want to see the best of the Phi Phi Islands without the hassle of organizing multiple activities themselves.